Black Book

Yes she was beaten as a short-priced favourite but unfortunately she was a victim of circumstance. She jumped nicely from barrier 11 but couldn't slot in for cover so Oliver was forced to push forward to sit outside the lead, facing a very stiff head-wind. The Waterhouse filly hit the front at the top of the straight but faded over the final 100m to miss a place. The leader knocked up to finish last, beaten 8.3L, while all three placegetters came from off the pace. Don't sack her on this effort.

This was an absolute horror show for his backers/connections. He drifted back from barrier 5 and was still in the last three at the top of the straight. Avdulla waited for a gap to open up but it never came, basically going to the line under a tight hold behind the first four. He'll be extremely hard to beat in similar grade next start but don't expect flash odds. *Mount Panorama was also horribly unlucky in the same race and is worth keeping an eye on.

I doubt anyone missed this run but just in case you did... The Weir-trained filly settled midfield on the fence and was in a really awkward position approaching the final turn. Yendall went for a run between Eleonora and Bettyrae Ruby at the 400m but the gap closed and she lost ground and vital momentum. Despite the heavy check, she got going again to charge into second. Her last 200m was run in 11.80 seconds which was easily the fastest of the race (next best 12.11). She's right in the mix as far as the Oaks goes.